Silicone Rubber Mould Making and Glass Casting

Silicone Rubber Mould Making and Glass Casting

Discover the versatility of silicone rubber for glass casting by learning to create master moulds for repeatable forms. This hands-on class explores both positive and negative silicone moulds, providing a strong foundation for producing multiple glass castings with precision and consistency. While we still need to make our refractory moulds for the kiln casting process, silicon rubber moulds are perfect for making multiples or even pouring wax into to make components.

Participants will work through three key stages:

1. Master Mould Making – Participants have the option of making their master model using an additive or reductive technique. The additive method is building a model using clay. The reductive method is carving into a solid block, very much like carving into stone (but we are using something much softer!) From there you’ll create a simple, single-piece silicone rubber negative mould. This master can be used for various applications, including wax or resin casting, but in this class, we’ll use it to make a positive silicone master.
2. Master Positive Model – From the negative mould, you’ll produce a solid positive master using a highly flexible silicone. This positive master serves as a durable template for making refractory moulds, allowing for multiple repeatable casts.
3. Glass Casting in Repeatable Moulds – Using a silicone positive, you’ll create four refractory moulds and experiment with different types of glass: sheet, frit, billet, and powder, each offering unique effects in the final cast.

Throughout the class, we’ll discuss different types of silicone rubber, their uses, and the benefits of using this technique in glass casting.  We highly suggest students attend either the into to casting or lost wax casting course prior to enrolling in this workshop.

Duration: 3 days
Dates: Monday to Wednesday 4th – 6th August
Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Class Size: Limited to 6 students to ensure personalised instruction.

What You Will Learn:

Modeling in Clay: Learn the basics of clay modeling with a view to make a master mould. Considerations such as undercuts and surface will be covered.

Reductive sculpting: Carving a low relief, traditionally known as a bas relief using carving tools in a soft sculpting material.

Making a master silicone rubber: Selecting the right silicone rubbers for various applications, considering mould releases, making negative and positive moulds.

Refractory Mould Making: Making refractory moulds from the silicon master moulds

Open Face Casting: Discover the art of open face casting, a method that allows you to capture intricate details in your glass pieces.

Glass Selection: Understand the importance of glass selection, looking at various grades of glass and how they cast up.

Preparing Glass: Learn how to prepare glass for casting, ensuring it is in the right form and condition for your creations.

Determining Volumes of Glass: Develop the ability to calculate the precise amount of glass required for your casting projects, minimising waste.

Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S): Understand safety protocols and best practices for working with glass and related materials.

Materials: All mould materials and glass are included in the course fee.

Please read our terms and conditions about classes  before enrolling.

Class Materials

Please bring the following to class:
• Dust mask • Safety glasses • Suitable working clothing (including closed shoes, long pants and an apron for over shirt) • Pencil and paper • Windex and paper towel • Latex gloves • Digital camera is useful